Traditional cadets currently earn $4,440/monthly while attending the Illinois State Police Academy. Upon successful completion of the Academy, the Trooper's salary is increased to $7,569 per month.

Lateral Cadets will receive Trooper 1 pay ($7,569/month) while attending the Illinois State Police Academy.

As of 7/1/2026, upon successful completion of the Academy, a first year Trooper's base salary is $90,828.

Personal health and dental insurance are provided at a nominal cost. Also, basic life insurance and vision coverage are provided at no cost. Additional coverage for family members is available at group rates.

The following information is provided on the State Employees’ Retirement System (SERS) of Illinois website:

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Tier 1: This information applies to individuals who became a member of SERS or a reciprocal system on or before December 31, 2010. The alternative formula applies to members in certain positions with 20 years of alternative service. Members eligible for the alternative formula may retire at age 50 with 25 years of service, or at age 55 with 20 years of service.

Tier 2: This information applies to individuals who became a member of SERS or a reciprocal system after December 31, 2010. The alternative formula applies to members in certain positions with 20 years of alternative service. Members eligible for the alternative formula may retire at age 60 with 20 years of service.

During the first year of service, officers receive 2 weeks of paid vacation, one sick day a month and compensation for working any holiday. Additional vacation days are earned through service longevity.

The academy is a 30-week, para-military environment. Cadets are required to stay Sunday-Friday.

Yes. During the training period, cadets are furnished lodging, meals and most necessary supplies and equipment. Most weekends, cadets are free to travel home.

Yes. The amount is approximately $500.

No. You must be willing to be assigned to any Troop throughout the State. Troop assignments will be made at a time and date to be determined by the Director of the Illinois State Police.

Officers have a State mandated retirement age of 60 years.

You must start your career as a Trooper with a Field Training Officer (FTO) on the road. There is a probationary period that all officers must complete with their FTO. After completion of two years in their original assignment location, officers may request a transfer to another area.

Officers who currently have tattoos or body modifications that are on their face, above the collarbone, neck area, fingers, hands, wrist, arms, or otherwise visible due to the open collar of the standard uniform shirt and V-neck t-shirt shall conceal them.

Officers who currently have tattoos or body modifications that are on the arms, visible in a short-sleeved uniform, will conceal them with a Departmental issued skin tone colored sleeve. Non-uniformed officers will also conceal tattoos or body modifications at all times while on duty. The Department, at its discretion, will decide the make and style of sleeve to be purchased.